Comparison of ASME B16.34 and API 600 Standards
# Comparison of ASME B16.34 and API 600 Standards
Introduction
When it comes to industrial valves, two commonly referenced standards are ASME B16.34 and API 600. Both play crucial roles in ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of valves used in various industries. While they share some similarities, there are significant differences between these standards that engineers and procurement specialists should understand.
Overview of ASME B16.34
ASME B16.34 is a comprehensive standard developed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers that covers valves with flanged, threaded, and welding end connections. This standard applies to a wide range of valve types including gate, globe, check, ball, and butterfly valves.
Key Features of ASME B16.34:
- Pressure-temperature ratings for valve bodies
- Material specifications and requirements
- Design and testing requirements
- Dimensional standards for various valve types
Overview of API 600
API 600, developed by the American Petroleum Institute, is specifically focused on bolted bonnet steel gate valves for petroleum and natural gas industries. This standard is more specialized than ASME B16.34 and includes additional requirements tailored for hydrocarbon service.
Key Features of API 600:
Keyword: two commonly asme b16 34 and api 600
- Specific to steel gate valves with bolted bonnets
- Includes fire-safe design requirements
- Contains additional testing requirements beyond ASME standards
- Focuses on applications in petroleum and natural gas industries
Main Differences Between the Standards
| Feature | ASME B16.34 | API 600 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Broad – covers multiple valve types | Narrow – focused on steel gate valves |
| Industry Focus | General industrial applications | Petroleum and natural gas industries |
| Fire Testing | Not included | Includes fire-safe testing requirements |
| Materials | General material requirements | Specific material requirements for hydrocarbon service |
When to Use Each Standard
Choosing between ASME B16.34 and API 600 depends on your specific application:
- Use ASME B16.34 when you need general valve standards applicable to various industries and valve types
- Use API 600 when specifying bolted bonnet steel gate valves for petroleum or natural gas applications, especially where fire safety is a concern
Conclusion
While both ASME B16.34 and API 600 are important valve standards, they serve different purposes. ASME B16.34 provides broad requirements for various valve types across industries, while API 600 offers specialized requirements for gate valves in hydrocarbon service. Understanding these differences helps ensure proper valve selection and compliance with industry requirements.